Certificate in Designing, Engineering and Constructing a Sustainable Built Environment

Purpose Statement

Who is this qualification for?

The purpose of this qualification is to recognise learning at Level 3 that is relevant to the design, engineering and construction of buildings with a specific emphasis on environmental sustainability. It is suitable for anyone that is interested in working in the construction industry but especially those that want to get a taste of work in professions such as architecture, surveying, civil engineering and facilities management. Even for those not going into employment in the construction industry, the qualification will provide an insight into how their environment is constructed and the decisions that need to be taken to get a building project under way. You will need to be competent in mathematics and English at least at GCSE grade C level and in ICT user skills at Level 2 to be able to access this course. Although not essential, having the Designing, Engineering and Constructing a Sustainable Built Environment (QCF) Level 2 qualification will be a distinct advantage, as wil having achieved the award at Level 3.

What does this qualification cover?

The Certificate requires candidates to complete 3 of the 5 units in the table below:

Credits

GLH/TQT

Notes

Structure

Unit 1: Defining a Sustainable Construction Project

12

60 hours

Learners will be required to research and identify a realistic project and write a mission statement. They will define the various requirements and the commitment in terms of reduction of waste and sustainability. They will complete this by defining the site information and topographical aspects.

Unit 2: Developing a Sustainable Construction Project

10

60 hours

Learners will be required to design a detailed brief and set up a team, using organograms and contracts as required. They will be expected to use BIM techniques for their concepts and designs. This will need to be presented for approval. They will then create a detailed planning application for approval, taking care to consider legal and environmental concerns.

Unit 3: Support Design, Structural and Services aspects of a Sustainable Construction Project

8

60 hours

Learners will extend their use of BIM techniques to further enhance the design process. At this point they will also be able to create an architectural model. BIM will be used to develop th structural elements of the project as well as detailed 3D renderings. BIM will also be used to work out the extensive details of the plan such as energy requirements or other constraints highlighted by BIM.

Learners will further develop their model to develop the management requirements and operational needs of the project. This will include elements such as water waste, maintenance costs etc. The learners can then carry our realistic cost analysis work in order to have detailed accounting of materials and audit trails going forward. This detail will be used to create and submit a detailed budget for the project.

Unit 5: Evaluating and Documenting a Sustainable Construction Project

10

60 hours

Learners will show their skill and understanding of complex construction techniques and BIM techniques to make clear and objective comparisons of construction projects. They will be able to explain the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches for informed project decisions. They can then make a presentation to all stake-holders and field Q & A sessions.

What could this qualification lead to?

This qualification could ultimately lead to employment in the construction industry in one of a range of professional positions such as architect, surveyor, civil engineer, facilities manager. It provides an insight for citizens so that they are better placed to participate in the democratic process when issues around planning arise in their locality. It will support a general improvement in education through applied practise in English, mathematics and ICT. It could provide a stepping stone to an apprenticeship in the construction industry.

This qualification has been developed in direct collaboration with industry professionals to meet current and up to date industry demands. It provides a link from the Level 2 Certificate with options for milestones using the Level 3 Award and Certificate of the same name. This qualification is complementary to other Level 3 subjects broadening the level 3 curriculum e.g. for those studying mathematics, physics, engineering and digital technologies, with close links to applied learning in employer led scenarios. This qualification is a combination of coursework and a grading exam. It is designed to support learner interest and progression, particularly for potential construction industry professionals. It can lead to under graduate courses at university related to the construction industry.

Who Supports this qualification?

Employer involvement It is essential to involve employers in the construction industry in the coursework assessment and suitable contacts can be provided where needed. (Handbook page 5 para. 1.5) Suitable involvement includes employers making judgements against a minimum of three of the assessment criteria and agreeing these judgements with the assessor.